MACC to investigate money-for-datukship allegations

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) will investigate an allegation made by a businessman from China who said he had given Barisan Nasional politicians money for them to obtain datukships.

MACC investigations division director Datuk Mohd Jamidan Abdullah said the anti-graft body would meet with China-based CAA Resources chairman and chief executive Li Yang, who claimed that he had paid the politicians around US$100,000 (RM335,650) each.

In an interview with the New York Times, Li revealed that that this was done to facilitate his company's iron ore mining operations in Bukit Besi, Terengganu.

"We are looking at his allegation seriously and we will meet him to get more details on this matter...we do not tolerate any form of corruption," Mohd Jamidan said in a statement.

In the report, 27-year-old Li also said that he had worked to build ties with local political leaders from the ruling coalition following a four-decade closure of the mine, a result of "bureaucracy and labour union troubles".

"If you've got these two to support you, then you can do anything you want because the natural resources are controlled by them," said Li, adding that the politicians who had "indirect stakes" in the mine would be paid to receive datukships.

Mohd Jamidan said Li's statement could tarnish the name and image of the palace, as there was a possibility of a middleman who would take advantage by demanding money from businessmen.

"MACC will take a stern action if this allegation of requesting bribes or kickbacks to facilitate business operations is proven to be true," he said.